Provins, France: How to Spend A Day in the Medieval City
The medieval era has always been able to transport me back in time. It could be the romanticized notion of knights that makes it come alive. Provins is a medieval city small enough to wander around but magical enough to transport you back in time.
It was the site of international trade fairs during the era of the Counts of Champagne. I only found out who they were when I visited in 2019. The Counts of Champagne were the noble line of King Louis X.
Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, Provins is the perfect little city for walking that will talk you back in time in the best way.
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Getting to Provins
Provins is 90 km outside of Paris. If you’re not local, it will be easiest to make the journey by train.
Take the SNCF Transilien P line from Paris Est to Provins. This direct train will take just under an hour and a half. It costs 15€. It’s a 10-minute walk from the train station to the old part of the city. You can walk or take a bus/uber, but the walk is one of the best parts, so walk if you can.
What to See in Provins in a Day
Marvel at the Architecture
The cobblestone streets of Provins are lined with half-timbered houses. Take time to wander around the streets and take in these unique buildings. While you walk, try to imagine what it would’ve been like to attend a 13th-century trade fair in the city.
Few specific buildings stand out but look for the Maison Romane. This is one of the oldest buildings in the city and is also the home of the Museum of Provins, which is worth a quick visit.
Explore Medieval Alleys
There is nothing better than a city small enough to wander around without worrying about getting lost. Provins fits the bill, and on top of it all, you’re exploring medieval alleyways. Take time to veer off into different alleys as you meander around the city.
Walk the Ramparts
Provins was a fortified city like most major cities during this time. The ramparts are 80 ft (25 meters) tall, and there is still around 3/4 mile (1.2 kilometers) that you can walk. It’s free to walk on the walls, which is crazy! It’s an incredible experience they could definitely charge for! It’s recommended to start your walk on the walls around Porte Saint-Jean. The tourism office is nearby for any information you need. Walk on the walls and go up in the towers. Then walk along the exterior of the walls and in the moat. You can spend a lot of time wandering around this part of Provins, and it is worth every minute of it.
See where Joanne of Arc Went to Mass
Navigate to Collégiale Saint-Quiriace. This little church is pretty unassuming. It’s nowhere near as ornate as many churches and cathedrals in the area. Take some time to explore the church’s interior if you’d like. Look for the plate describing Joan of Arc attending Mass there in 1429. You’ll want proof that you’ve walked somewhere that Joan of Arc did.
Visit Tour César
“Caesars Tower” is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city. The tower was built in the 13th century when Provins was the 3rd largest city in France. It served as a prison and watchtower. Now, it’s the bell tower of the Collégiale Saint-Quiriace. The tower is unique because it has so many different shapes. The first level is a circle, the second a square, the third a circle, the fourth an octagon, and a pyramid at the top.
After you admire the tower from the ground, pay 4,30 € to go in and tour the tower. The opening hours are confusing, so double-check and plan ahead.
| Date Range (2022) | Weekend | Weekday |
| Jan 2 – Mar 25 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. |
| Mar 26 – Nov 6 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. |
| Nov 7 – Dec 31 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. |
| December 10 & 11 | 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. | 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. |
| December 25 and January 1 | Closed | Closed |
Watch your head, even if you’re not tall! The entries to the stairs are tiny doorways. View the city and countryside when you get to the top of the tower. Beware of dizziness as you descend the spiral staircase.
Check out tunnels or roses
Some tunnels run below the old houses in Provins. If you’re interested in visiting, get tickets early. The tunnels are chilly so bring a jacket if you visit during the summer.
Provins is also known for roses. If you’re into that, make sure you check it out. This is an award-winning rose garden that boasts flowers in bloom throughout Autumn. The flowers weren’t blooming by late October, so we missed it.
Plan to Visit During the Medieval Festival
What could be better than taking in medieval reenactments in an actual medieval city? Starting in late March, find knights, falconry, and jousting. You can even check out the Provins version of a medieval dinner theatre.
Provins is a remarkable city. Its proximity to Paris and the unique experience it provides make me wonder why it isn’t on a list of must-sees for more people. Don’t miss out!
There are so many great off-the-beaten-path day trips from Paris. All you have to do is look!
If you’re looking for ideas:
Is Provins worth visiting?
Provins is worth visiting and is a great day trip from Paris. The city dates from the 12th century.
What is Provins France known for?
Provins is known for its well-preserved medieval city center. The city was home to trading fairs. There is even a church where Joan of Arc went to mass once!
How old is Provins France?
Provins is a medieval city so the oldest buildings there date back to the 12th century.
